After decades of being clean-shaven, residents and staff at supported living neighbourhood Tall Trees Ocean View donned a set of healthy moustaches for November—all in the name of men’s wellbeing.

Residents James Murray, Jack Walker, Ken Anstee and Ray Watts, and staff member David Pickering have all participated in the month-long Movember fundraiser, which raises money for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and depression initiative Beyondblue.

Tall Trees Ocean View welcome consultant David Pickering says the charity has been a great cause to get involved with.

“The blokes and I have been loud and proud about growing our mo’s to raise money for men’s health issues,” Mr Pickering says.

“Beneath the surface of Movember’s fun campaign is a very serious initiative that shouldn’t be overlooked.

“Without Movember, there are too few fundraisers that are designed specifically to assist in research into men’s health issues or initiatives helping them through depression.”

Resident Ray Watts said until this month, it had been years since he had a moustache.

“The first time I grew one was back in 1942, and now this month is my second time ever,” Mr Watts says.

“It started with the staff here at Tall Trees telling us about the fundraiser and encouraged residents to get involved, and I joined in as it goes towards a cause that affects me personally.

“I have had prostate cancer for eight years now, but this year is the first time I have heard about the idea of Movember, with David and a few of us getting on board with it.”

81-year-old Ken Anstee, another resident partaking in the Movember activity, says he can’t wait to shave it off.

“This is the first time in my whole life that I have ever grown a moustache and it is sure to be the last,” Mr Anstee says.

“I honestly can’t wait to get rid of it, but I committed to growing it this month because it is for a very good cause. I really hope the money we pull together will make a difference.

“My daughter is sponsoring me for growing a mo this month and we have residents and staff getting behind us as well.”

Tall Trees Ocean View have had a donations box at reception to make visitors aware that residents and staff are involved and to encourage their support in fundraising for men’s health.

Donations can be made by visiting the neighbourhood at 2 Terranora Road, Banora Point.

http://www.mydailynews.com.au/story/2011/11/28/movember-growth-spotted-among-the-tall-trees-men/